KR102127101B1 - Caps for implants and implant assemblies - Google Patents

Abstract

The implant assembly can include an implant configured to engage at least one bone site. The implant may include an implant body that defines at least one non-smooth surface. The assembly may also include a cap configured to be coupled to the implant body, wherein the cap rests on at least one non-smooth surface. The cap can include a shell defining a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the implant body, wherein the shell is bent against the implant body when the cavity receives at least a portion of the implant body to bond the cap to the implant. . This cap defines a curved outer surface.

Description

CAPS FOR IMPLANT AND IMPLANT ASSEMBLIES

Cross-reference to related applications

This incident is incorporated by reference in US Provisional Application No. 61/756,758 filed January 25, 2013 and United States Provisional Application Filed February 12, 2013, each of which is incorporated by reference as if fully described herein. /763,672 claims priority.

Medical procedures often require the implantation of devices into a patient's body. For example, to fix two or more bones relative to each other, a bone screw, bone plate, fixation member, or even a distractor is coupled to the two or more bones. Such devices or implants typically have sharp edges that can cause irritation to surrounding soft tissues, such as, for example, surrounding blood vessels, muscles including the tongue, nerves, skin, and dura.

In one embodiment, the cap can be configured to be coupled to an implant having an implant body. The cap can include a cap body comprising a shell having at least a first inner surface and a shell having at least one sidewall defining a second inner surface spaced from the first inner surface along a first direction. The first and second inner surfaces at least partially define a cavity sized to receive at least a portion of the implant body such that the shell is positioned between the first position and the second position when the cavity receives at least a portion of the implant body. You will be able to bend in. The cap may further include an attachment mechanism configured to engage the inner surface of the implant when the shell is in the second position to capture at least a portion of the implant body within the cavity.

In other embodiments, the implant assembly may include an implant configured to engage at least one bone site. The implant can include an implant body that defines at least one non-smooth surface. The assembly may also include a cap configured to be coupled to the implant body, wherein the cap rests on at least one non-smooth surface. The cap can include a shell defining a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the implant body, wherein the shell is bent against the implant body when the cavity receives at least a portion of the implant body to bond the cap to the implant. The cap defines a curved outer surface.

In another embodiment, a method of securing a first bone site relative to a second bone area comprises fixing the first bone area relative to the second bone area with an implant defining a bone facing surface and an opposite outer surface; Positioning the cap defining the curved outer surface over the outer surface of the implant, wherein the cap has a shell defining a cavity, and the cap also has at least one attachment member extending from the shell, said positioning step ; And moving the cap towards the implant such that the cavity receives a portion of the implant and at least one attachment member abuts the bone directing surface, thereby coupling the cap to the implant.

The foregoing outline, as well as the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In order to illustrate the invention, preferred embodiments are shown in the figures. However, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the specific embodiments and methods disclosed, and the claims are referred to for that purpose. In the drawing,
1A is an exploded perspective view of an implant assembly comprising a cap and a bone fixation member constructed in accordance with one embodiment, wherein the cap is configured to engage the locking head of the bone fixation member, wherein the cap is placed over the locking head to reduce sharp edges Or, otherwise, provides a smoother edge to the bone fixation member.
1B is a bottom perspective view of the cap shown in FIG. 1A coupled to a locking head.
1C is a bottom view of the implant assembly shown in FIG. 1B.
1D is a cross-sectional view through line 1D-1D of the cap shown in FIG. 1C coupled to a locking head.
FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of an implant assembly comprising a pair of caps and corrugations constructed according to another embodiment, wherein the pair of caps are configured to engage the corrugations, with each cap resting on the corrugation to reduce sharp edges Or, otherwise, it provides a smoother edge to the corrugated board.
2B is a top perspective view of the cap shown in FIG. 2A coupled to a bone plate.
Figure 2c is a cross-sectional side view of the pair of caps shown in Figure 2b coupled to the bone plate.
Figure 2d is a cross-sectional view through the line 2D-2D of the first cap of the pair of caps shown in Figure 2b, the first cap is provided with a pair of attachment members coupled to the side of the corrugated plate.
2E is a cross-sectional view through the line 2E-2E of the second cap of the pair of caps shown in FIG. 2B, the second cap having a pair of attachment members coupled to the bone fixation holes of the corrugated plate.
3A is an exploded perspective view of an implant assembly comprising a cap and a spinal component implant constructed in accordance with another embodiment, wherein the cap is configured to be coupled to the spinal rod of the implant, wherein the cap is placed over the head of a bone screw coupled to the spinal rod Reduces sharp edges or otherwise provides a smoother edge to the bone screw.
3B is a perspective view of the cap shown in FIG. 3A coupled to a spinal rod.
3C is a front view of the cap shown in FIG. 3B coupled to the spinal rod.
3D is a cross-section through line 3D-3D of the cap shown in FIG. 3C coupled to the spinal rod.
4A is an exploded perspective view of an implant assembly comprising a cap and a stretcher constructed according to another embodiment, wherein the cap is configured to be coupled to the body of the stretcher, wherein the cap is placed over the body to reduce sharp edges or otherwise stretch It provides a smoother edge to the body of smoke.
Figure 4b is a perspective view of the cap shown in Figure 4a coupled to the new smoke.
4C is a bottom view of the cap shown in FIG. 4B coupled to the body.
4D is a side view of the cap shown in FIG. 4B coupled to the body.
4E is a front view of the cap shown in FIG. 4B coupled to the body.
5A is a top perspective view of an implant assembly including a cap constructed in accordance with another embodiment, wherein the cap is configured to engage an aperture in a clamp member of a cranial clamp, and the cap is placed over the clamp member and a sharp edge To reduce or otherwise provide a smoother edge to the clamp member.
5B is a cross-sectional view through line 5B-5B of the cap shown in FIG. 5A coupled to a clamp member.

Certain terms are used in the following description for convenience only, and are not limiting. The words "right", "left", "lower" and "upper" indicate directions in the referenced drawings. The words "in the proximal direction" and "in the distal direction" refer to the direction toward and away from the surgeon using the surgical instrument, respectively. The words "front", "rear", "upward", "downward" and related words and/or phrases refer to the preferred position and orientation within the referenced human body, and are not intended to be limiting. The term includes the words listed above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

1A to 1D, the implant assembly 10 includes an implant shown as a bone fixation member 14 configured to be coupled to at least one bone region, and a cap configured to be coupled to the bone fixation member 14 ( 18). In particular, the bone fixation member 14 is configured to hold together the first and second bone portions of the target bone, such as the sternum, separated from the fractured position, together in a compressed approached position. 1A and 1B, the bone fixation member 14 may be configured substantially as a cable tie, horizontally and transversely along the longitudinal direction L and the lateral direction A. It extends vertically along (T). The bone fixation member 14 includes an implant body configured as a flexible strap 22 elongated along the longitudinal direction and a locking head 26 extending along the longitudinal direction L from the end of the strap 22.

The locking head defines an inner surface 24, such as a bone directing surface, an outer surface 25, and a slot 27 extending through the locking head 26 from the bone directing surface 24 to the outer surface 25. Can. The locking head may also include at least one locking tooth 28 extending into the slot 27. The strap 22 may define a plurality of teeth 23 configured to engage with at least one teeth 28 of the locking head 26 when the strap 22 translates through the slot 27. . The implant body of the locking head 26 is substantially box-shaped to define at least one non-smooth surface 30. For example, since the locking head 26 is substantially box-shaped, the edges of the locking head may not be sharp or otherwise round. Thus, it can be said that the locking head 26 has at least one non-smooth surface 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the bone directing surface 24 is the lower surface of the locking head 26 and at least one non-smooth surface 30 of the locking head 26 is the upper surface. However, it should be appreciated that the bone directing surface 24 can be any surface facing the bone, and the at least one non-smooth surface 30 can be any surface on the locking head 26. It should also be appreciated that, for example, the non-smooth surface 30 can be any surface that is divided or otherwise interrupted, any surface that includes sharp edges, or any surface that includes protrusions.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, the cap 18 may be placed on the locking head or at least the non-smooth surface 30 to exclude and/or exclude the non-smooth surface and/or the touch of the locking head 26. It can be configured to be coupled to the locking head 26 to reduce palpability. Thus, the cap 18 can be configured to remove a sharp edge from the locking head 26 and/or reduce its tactile feel when engaged with the locking head 26. 1A and 1B, the cap 18 includes a cap body 34 that is curved or otherwise rounded to reduce irritation that may be caused to surrounding soft tissue by the locking head 26. The cap body 34 defines a first or upper end 38 and a second or lower end 42 spaced apart transversely from the first end 38. The cap body 34 further includes a cavity 46 extending into the lower end 42. The cavity 46 is configured to receive at least a portion of the locking head 26, for example a main portion. However, it should be appreciated that the cavity 46 can be configured to accommodate any locking head as desired.

As shown in FIG. 1C, the first end 38 of the cap body 34 defines the upper surface 50, and the second end 42 of the cap body 34 defines the lower surface 54. do. The cap body 34 also defines two opposing side surfaces 58 that are incorporated into the top and bottom surfaces 50,54. As shown, the cap body 34 is curved or otherwise rounded along the longitudinal direction L and proximal spaced along the longitudinal direction L from the distal body end 64 and the distal body end 64. Body end 68 is included. The cap body 34 can be curved from the position between the distal and proximal body ends 64, 68 to the proximal body end 68. Thus, the upper surface 50 is substantially convex along the longitudinal direction L. 1D, the top surface 50 is curved such that the slope of the top surface 50 increases as the top surface 50 extends toward the proximal body end 68.

1B to 1D, the cap body 34 may define an outer shell 80 and an inner shell 84 disposed within the outer shell 80. The inner shell 84 extends downward from the ceiling 70 and the first end 38 and at least the first inner surface 75a and the first inner side along a first direction (eg, lateral direction). At least one sidewall 74 that defines a second inner surface 75b spaced from and substantially facing away from the surface 75a, wherein the ceiling 70 and the first and second inner surfaces 75a, 75b Defines the cavity 46 at least partially. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one sidewall 74 defines a third surface 75c connecting the first surface 75a to the second surface 75b, wherein the first, second, and third The surfaces 75a-75c are continuous. However, it should be appreciated that the inner shell 84 can include three sidewalls each defining respective inner surfaces 75a-75c. In addition, the second inner surface 75b has a first inner surface 75a such that a line orthogonal to the second inner surface 75a has a directional component extending toward the first inner surface or at least toward the first inner surface. It should be recognized that you can head towards. Thus, the first and second inner surfaces 75a, 75b can define planes that are parallel to each other, or can define planes that are oblique to each other and still substantially facing each other.

1D, the distal end of the cap body 34 defines an opening 78 that extends into the cavity 46. The ceiling portion 70 and at least one side wall 74 are configured to cover the locking head 26 when the locking head 26 is received in the cavity 46, and the opening portion 78 has a locking head 26 The strap 22 is configured to extend through the opening 78 when received within the cavity 46.

1C, the outer shell 80 can define an inner surface 92, and the inner shell 84 can also define an outer surface 96, which outer surface 96 is Away from and away from inner surface 92 along at least a portion of surfaces 92 and 96. Because the inner and outer surfaces 92, 96 of the outer and inner shells 80, 84 are spaced from each other, the inner shell 84 is the outer shell 80 when the cavity 46 receives the locking head 26. ). That is, the side wall 74 of the inner shell 84 is configured to bend outward elastically between the first position and the second position when the cavity 46 receives the locking head 26. However, it should be appreciated that the inner shell 84 can be configured such that it is not flexible. It should also be appreciated that the cap body 34 may not have an inner shell 84 and may define an outer shell that defines the cavity 46.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1B-1D, the cap 18 may further include an attachment mechanism configured to couple the cap 18 to the locking head 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism comprises at least one attachment member configured to engage the cap 18 with the locking head 26, for example the first and second attachment members 100. As shown, the attachment mechanism or each attachment member 100 can be substantially defined by, or otherwise extended from, at least one sidewall 74 along the first direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second attachment members 100 extend towards each other into the cavity 46 from positions proximate the lower end 32 and face each other along the first direction. The attachment member 100 can each define an abutment surface 104 facing the ceiling 70 of the cavity 36, wherein when the cap 18 is coupled to the locking head 26, the abutment surface 104 The locking head (26) abuts against the bone oriented surface (24) to capture or otherwise secure the locking head in the cavity (46). It should be appreciated that the attachment member can include other configurations. For example, the attachment member 100 may define a C-clip. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the cap 18 can include features other than the attachment member 100, which is configured to couple the cap 18 to the locking head 26. For example, the attachment mechanism can be the surface of at least one sidewall 74 creating a frictional fit with the locking head, or the attachment mechanism can be a securing member, such as a needle. In addition, the first and second attachment members 100 can be configured to abut each bone oriented surface of the locking head.

During surgery, a bone fixation member 14 can be placed around the bone segment of the sternum between adjacent ribs, and the strap 22 can be pulled through the slot 27. When the strap 22 is translated through the slot 27 of the locking head 26, the locking teeth 28, 23 are engaged, and the tension caused by the strap 22 causes the strap 22 to slide through the slot 27 ) It can be prevented from retreating outside. Once the strap 22 has reached the desired maximum tension, the free end of the bone fixation member 14 can be cut. After this free end is removed, the cap 18 can be coupled to the locking head 26 to smooth the sharp edges of the locking head 26.

In other embodiments and with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E, the implant assembly 110 is implanted with a bone plate 114 configured to be coupled to at least one bone site, and both to be coupled to the bone plate 114. It may include a configured first cap (118a) and / or a second cap (118b). In particular, the bone plate 114 is configured to fix the first and second bone sites separated from the fractured position together in the pressed approached position. The bone plate 114 can include a plate body 126, which plate body 126 is an inner surface 124 such as a bone oriented surface, an opposite outer surface 125, and an outer side from the bone oriented surface 124. It defines a plurality of bone fixation holes 127 extending through the plate body 126 up to the surface 125. The plate body 126 may also include at least one bone fixation element extending through one of the bone fixation holes 127 into one of the bone regions to couple the bone plate 114 to the bone region. The plate body 126 is substantially box-shaped to define at least one non-smooth surface 130. For example, because the plate body 126 is substantially box-shaped, the edges of the plate body 126 may not be sharp or otherwise round. Thus, it can be said that the plate body 126 has at least one non-smooth surface 130. In addition, a bone fixation element extending through one of the bone fixation holes 127 can also define at least one non-smooth surface 130.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2A-2D, the cap 118a includes a cap body 126a that is placed on a plate body 126 or at least a non-smooth surface 130 to exclude and/or exclude the non-smooth surface or plate body 126 ) To be coupled to the plate body 126 to reduce the palpability. Thus, the cap 118a can be configured to remove sharp edges from the plate body 126 and/or reduce its tactile properties when coupled to the plate body 126. As shown in FIG. 2A, the cap 118a includes a cap body 134a that is curved or otherwise rounded to reduce irritation that may be caused to surrounding soft tissue by the plate body 126. The cap body 134a defines a first or upper end 138a and a second or lower end 142a spaced apart transversely from the first end 138a. The cap body 134a further includes a cavity 146a extending into the lower end 142a. Cavity 146a is configured to receive at least a portion of plate body 126.

As shown in FIG. 2D, the first end 138a of the cap body 134a defines an upper surface 150a that is curved or otherwise rounded along the lateral direction A, and the distal body end 164a And a proximal body end 168a spaced along the longitudinal direction L from the distal body end 164a. The cap body 134a may be curved along the lateral direction to define a convex outer surface 150a. As shown in FIG. 2D, the top surface 150a is curved such that the slope of the top surface 150a increases as the top surface 150a extends in both directions laterally from the centerline of the top surface 150a. .

2B to 2D, the cap body 134a may define an outer shell 180a and an inner shell 184a disposed within the outer shell 180a. The inner shell 184a extends downward from the ceiling 170a and the first end 138a and at least along the first inner surface 175a and the first direction (eg, lateral) to the first inner surface 175a. ) And at least two side walls 174a defining a second inner surface 175b spaced from and substantially facing it, wherein the ceiling 170a and the first and second inner surfaces 175a, 175b are at least partially To limit the cavity (146a). In the illustrated embodiment, the inner shell 184a includes a second sidewall spaced from the first sidewall 174a such that the first sidewall 174a and the first inner surface 175a are parallel to the second inner surface 175b. 174a). Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the ceiling portion 170a defines a recess 171 that is configured to receive a portion of the head of the bone fixation element when the cap 118a is coupled to the implant body 126 over the bone fixation element. .

2C, the distal end of the cap body 134a defines a first opening 178a that extends into the cavity 146a, and the proximal end of the cap body 134a extends into the cavity 146a. The second opening 178b to be defined is limited. The cavity 146a and the first and second openings 178a and 178b extend through the cap body 134a along a second direction (eg, longitudinal direction) substantially perpendicular to the first direction 179a. Together. The channel 179a is configured to receive a plate body and cover a portion of the plate body 126, and the openings 178a, 178b have the above-described portion of the plate body 126 as a cavity 146a or a channel 179a. The plate body 126 is configured to extend through the openings 178a, 178b when accommodated therein. It should be appreciated that although the first and second sidewalls 174a are each continuous along the second direction, the first and second sidewalls 174a may be divided along the second direction as desired.

2D, the outer shell 180a can define an inner surface 192a, and the inner shell 184a can also define an outer surface 196a, which outer surface 196a Away from and away from the inner surface 192a along at least a portion of the surfaces 192a, 196a. Since the inner and outer surfaces 192a, 196a of the outer and inner shells 180a, 184a are spaced from each other, the inner shell 184a is the outer shell 180a when the cavity 146a receives the plate body 126. ). That is, the side wall 174a of the inner shell 184a is configured to bend outward elastically between the first position and the second position when the cavity 146a receives the plate body 126. However, it should be appreciated that the inner shell 184a can be configured without flexibility. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the cap body 134a can be configured such that the outer shell defines a cavity 146a.

With continued reference to FIG. 2D, the cap 118a may further include an attachment mechanism configured to couple the cap 118a to the body 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism includes at least one attachment member, such as first and second attachment members 200a, each configured to capture the cap 118a to the body 126, respectively. As shown, the attachment mechanism or each attachment member 200a is substantially defined by, or otherwise from, at least one sidewall, for example, each of the first and second sidewalls 174a along the first direction Can be extended. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second attachment members 200a extend toward each other into the cavity 146a from a position proximate the lower end 142a and face each other along the first direction. The attachment member 200a can each define an abutment surface 204a facing the ceiling 170a of the cavity 146a, wherein when the cap 118a is coupled to the plate body 126, the abutment surface 204a The plate body 126 is captured or otherwise fixed in the cavity 146a by abutting the bone-directed surface(s) 124 of the plate body 126. It should be appreciated that the attachment member can include other configurations. For example, the attachment member 200a can define a C-clip. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the cap 118a can include features other than the attachment member 200a, which is configured to couple the cap 118a to the plate body 126. For example, the attachment mechanism can be each surface of the sidewall 174a creating a frictional fit with the body.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second sidewalls 174a are spaced apart from each other, where the first and second inner surfaces 175a, 175b are the implant body (when the cap 118a is coupled to the implant body 126). 126) is in contact with the outer side surface 208. During surgery, the plate 114 can be placed on at least two bone areas and secured to each bone fixation element in the bone area. Subsequently, the cap 118a can be coupled to the plate body 126 to smooth the sharp edges of the plate body 126. The cap 118a can be coupled to the implant body 126 such that the cap 118a is placed over the bone fixation element of the implant body 126 or over a portion of the implant body 126 between adjacent bone fixation element receiving holes. .

Referring now to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2E, cap 118b excludes the non-smooth surface with cap 118b placed over plate body 126 or at least non-smooth surface 130/ It may be configured to be coupled to the plate body 126 through one of the bone fixation holes 127 to exclude or reduce the palpability of the plate body 126. Thus, the cap 118b can be configured to remove sharp edges from the plate body 126 and/or reduce its tactile properties when coupled to the plate body 126. 2A and 2B, the cap 118b includes a cap body 134b that is curved or otherwise rounded to reduce irritation that may be caused to surrounding soft tissue by the plate body 126. . The cap body 134b defines a first or upper end 138b and a second or lower end 142b spaced apart transversely from the first end 138b. The cap body 134b further includes a cavity 146b extending into the lower end 142b. Cavity 146b is configured to receive at least a portion of plate body 126.

As shown in FIG. 2E, the first end 138b of the cap body 134b defines an upper surface 150b that is curved or otherwise rounded along the lateral direction A, and the distal body end 164b And a proximal body end 168b spaced along the longitudinal direction L from the distal body end 164b. The cap body 134b may be curved along the lateral direction to define a convex outer surface 150b. As shown in FIG. 2E, the top surface 150b is curved such that the slope of the top surface 150b increases as the top surface 150b extends in both directions laterally from the centerline of the top surface 150b. .

2A to 2C and 2E, the cap body 134b may define an outer shell 180b and an inner shell 184b disposed within the outer shell 180b. The outer shell 184b includes a ceiling 170b, and the inner shell 184b is spaced apart from the first inner surface 175c along at least the first inner surface 175c and the first direction (eg, lateral direction). And at least one sidewall 174b substantially defining a second inner surface 175c facing it. 2D, the outer shell 180b can define the first and second inner surfaces 192b, and the inner shell 184b can also define the first and second outer surfaces 196b. Can, and these outer surfaces 196b are directed away from and away from the inner surfaces 192b along at least a portion of the surfaces 192a, 196a. The ceiling portion 170b, the inner surface 192b and the outer surface 196b at least partially define the cavity 146b. Because the inner and outer surfaces 192b, 196b of the outer and inner shells 180b, 184b are spaced from each other, the inner shell 184b is the outer shell 180b when the cavity 146b receives the plate body 126. ). That is, at least one side wall 174b of the inner shell 184b is configured to bend inwardly elastically between the first position and the second position when the cavity 146b receives the plate body 126. However, it should be appreciated that the inner shell 184a can be configured to be not as flexible as desired.

The inner shell 184b or at least one sidewall 174b may be configured to be inserted through one of the bone fixation holes 127 of the plate body 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one sidewall 174b is substantially continuous, and is substantially cylindrical in shape. However, it should be appreciated that as long as the inner shell 184b can pass through one of the bone fixation holes 127, the at least one sidewall 174b is discontinuous/discontinuous or has a different shape as desired.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the distal end of the cap body 134b defines a first opening 178c that extends into the cavity 146b, and the proximal end of the cap body 134b extends into the cavity 146b The second opening 178d to be defined is limited. The cavity 146b and the first and second openings 178c and 178d are channels 179b extending through the cap body 134b along a second direction (eg, longitudinal direction) substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Together. The channel 179b is configured to receive the plate body 126 to cover a portion of the plate body, and the openings 178c, 178c have the above-described portion of the plate body 126 in the cavity 146b or the channel 179b. The plate body 126 is configured to be extended through the openings 178c, 178d when accommodated therein.

With continued reference to FIG. 2E, the cap 118b may further include an attachment mechanism configured to couple the cap 118b to the body 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism includes at least one attachment member configured to couple the cap 118b to the body 126, eg, first and second attachment members 200b. As shown, the attachment mechanism or each attachment member 200b may be defined by, or otherwise extend from, at least one sidewall substantially along the first direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second attachment members 200b extend away from each other into the cavity 146b from a position close to the lower end 142b, and face each other along the first direction. The attachment member 200b can each define an abutment surface 204b facing the ceiling 170b of the cavity 146b, wherein when the cap 118b is coupled to the plate body 126, the abutment surface 204b The plate body 126 is captured in the cavity 146b or otherwise secured against the bone oriented surface(s) 124 of the plate body 126. The first and second attachment members 200b can extend around the sidewalls to define a continuous attachment member. Further, the attachment member 200b can be opposed along any direction as desired. It should be appreciated that the attachment member can include other configurations. For example, the attachment member 200b can define a C-clip. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the cap 118b can include features other than the attachment member 200b, which is configured to couple the cap 118b to the plate body 126. For example, the attachment mechanism can be each surface of the sidewall 174b creating a frictional fit with the body, or the attachment mechanism can be a securing member, such as a needle. In addition, the first and second attachment members 200b can be configured to abut each bone-directed surface of the plate body.

In the illustrated embodiment and continuing with reference to FIG. 2E, at least one sidewall 174b has an implant body whose outer surface defines a bone fixation hole 127 when the cap 118b is engaged to the implant body 126. It is configured to abut against the inner surface 209 of 126. During surgery, the plate 114 can be placed on at least two bone areas and secured to each bone fixation element in the bone area. Subsequently, the cap 118b can be coupled to the plate body 126 to smooth the sharp edges of the plate body 126. The cap 118b is placed over the bone fixation element hole with or without the bone fixation element of the implant body 126 or over a portion of the implant body 126 between adjacent bone fixation element receiving holes. (126).

In other embodiments and with reference to FIGS. 3A-3D, the implant assembly 310 includes an implant exemplified as a bone fixation element, such as a pedicle screw and a fixation rod system 314 configured to engage at least one vertebra. Can, and cap 318 is configured to be coupled to system 314. In particular, system 314 is configured to secure first and second bone regions, such as first and second vertebrae. System 314 may include a pedicle screw 326 and a pedicle fixation rod 325 secured to the pedicle screw 326. The spinal fixation rod 325 can define an inner surface 324 such as a bone oriented surface and an opposite outer surface 321. The pedicle screw 326 secures a head portion 323 defining a rod receiving channel, an engaging portion extending from the head portion 323 and configured to attach to the bone, and a spinal fixation rod 325 within the rod receiving channel. In order to include a set screw (327) configured to be coupled to the head portion 323. The head portion 323 and/or set screw 327 may define at least one non-smooth surface 330. Thus, it can be said that the pedicle screw and the bone fixation rod are implant bodies defining at least one non-smooth surface 330. It should be appreciated that while the spinal fixation rod 325 defines a bone oriented surface, pedicle screws may also define a bone oriented surface of the system 314.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3A-3D, the cap 318 can be placed on the system 326 or at least the non-smooth surface 330 to exclude and/or exclude the non-smooth surface or the system 326. It can be configured to be coupled to the system 314 to reduce palpability, in particular to the head portion 323 and/or spinal fixation rod 325 of the pedicle screw 326. Accordingly, the cap 318 can be configured to remove sharp edges from the system 326 and/or reduce its tactile properties when coupled to the system 326. As shown in FIG. 3A, cap 318 includes a cap body 334 that is curved or otherwise rounded to reduce irritation that may be caused to surrounding soft tissue by system 326. The cap body 334 defines a first or upper end 338 and a second or lower end 342 spaced apart transversely from the first end 338. The cap body 334 further includes a cavity 346 extending into the lower end 342. Cavity 346 is configured to receive at least a portion of system 326, such as at least a portion of head portion 323 and/or spinal fixation rod 325.

As shown in FIG. 3D, the first end 338 of the cam body 334 defines an upper surface 350 that is curved or otherwise rounded, and the distal body end 364 and the distal body end 364. It includes a proximal body end 368 spaced along the longitudinal direction L from. The cap body 334 may be curved or otherwise domed to define a convex outer surface 350. 3C, the top surface 350 is curved such that the slope of the top surface 350 increases as the top surface 350 extends outwardly from the centerline of the top surface 350.

3A to 3D, the cap body 334 can define an outer shell 380, which outer shell 380 extends downward from the ceiling 370 and the first end, and At least one sidewall 374 defining at least a first inner surface 375a and a second inner surface 375b spaced from and substantially facing the first inner surface 375a along a first direction (eg, lateral). ), wherein the ceiling 370 and the first and second inner surfaces 375a, 375b at least partially define the cavity 346. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer shell 380 includes continuous sidewalls 374 that are cylindrically shaped such that the first and second inner surfaces 375a, 375b are continuous to each other to be a single surface.

3D, the distal end of the cap body 334 defines a first opening 378a extending into the cavity 346, and the proximal end of the cap body 334 extends into the cavity 346 The second opening 378b to be defined is limited. The cavity 346 and the first and second openings 378a, 378b extend through a cap body 334 along a second direction (eg, longitudinal) substantially perpendicular to the first direction 379 Together. The channel 379 is substantially cylindrically shaped, and is configured to receive a spinal fixation rod 325 to cover a portion of the spinal fixation rod 325 and at least a portion of the head portion 323 of the pedicle screw 326. , Openings 378a, 378b allow spinal fixation rods 325 to extend through openings 378a, 378b when the portion of spinal fixation rod 325 is received within cavity 346 or channel 379. It is configured to be. Although sidewall 374 is continuous, it should be appreciated that sidewall 374 can be divided as desired.

As shown in FIG. 3C, shell 380 is configured to bend elastically when cavity 346 receives head portion 323 and/or rod 325. That is, the side wall 374 is configured such that when the cavity 346 receives the head portion 323 and/or the rod 325, it is elastically bent outwardly between the first position and the second position.

With continued reference to FIG. 3D, the cap 318 can further include an attachment mechanism configured to couple the cap 318 to the system 314. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism includes at least one attachment member configured to couple the cap 318 to the system, eg, first and second attachment members 400. As shown, the attachment mechanism or each attachment member 400 can be substantially defined by, or otherwise extended from, at least one sidewall along the first direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second attachment members 400 extend into each other into the cavity 346 and face each other along the first direction. The attachment member 400 can each define an abutment surface 404 facing the ceiling 370 of the cavity 346, wherein when the cap 318 is coupled to the system 314, the abutment surface 404 The head portion 323 and the spinal fixation rod 325 are abutted or otherwise secured within the cavity 346 by abutting the bone oriented surface(s) 324 of the spinal fixation rod 325. It should be appreciated that the attachment member can include other configurations. For example, the attachment member 400 can define a C-clip. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the cap 318 can include features other than the attachment member 400, which is configured to couple the cap 318 to the system 314. For example, the attachment mechanism can be the respective surface of the sidewall 374 creating a frictional fit with the system, or the attachment mechanism can be a securing member, such as a needle. In addition, the first and second attachment members 400 can be configured to abut each bone oriented surface of the head portion 323.

During surgery, a pedicle screw may be attached to the vertebra, and a pedicle fixation rod may be attached to the pedicle screw to form a pedicle fixation system 314. The cap 318 can then be coupled to a pedicle screw and/or a pedicle fixation rod to smooth the sharp edges of the pedicle screw. The cap 318 can be coupled to the system 314 such that the cap 318 is placed over the head portion of the pedicle screw, for example, as shown in FIGS. 3B-3D.

In other embodiments and with reference to FIGS. 4A-4E, the implant assembly 410 is an implant and a stretcher 414, illustrated as a stretcher, such as a palatal stretcher 414 configured to be coupled to at least two bone sites. It may include a cap 418 configured to be coupled to. In particular, the stretcher 414 is configured to be coupled to the first and second bone regions, wherein the bone regions can be moved away from each other using the stretcher 414. For example, the new smoke 414 may be configured to expand the maxilla of a particular person. However, it should be appreciated that the new smoke 414 can be configured to expand any goal as desired.

4A to 4C, the stretcher 414 is a stretcher body 426, a first coupling member 425a extending from the first end of the stretcher body 426, and a stretcher body And a second coupling member 425b extending from the second opposite end of 426. The first and second coupling members 425a and 425b are configured to be attached to respective bone regions. The stretching body 426 is configured to move at least one of the first and second coupling members 425a and 425b away from the other to move at least one of the bone regions away from the other. The stretcher body 426 can define an inner surface 424 such as a tissue-oriented surface and an opposite outer surface 425. The new smoker body 426 may further define at least one non-smooth surface 430.

With continued reference to FIGS. 4A-4E, the cap 418 includes a cap 418 overlying the extruder body 426 or at least a non-smooth surface 430 to exclude and/or exclude the non-smooth surface and/or extruder body. To reduce the palpability of 426, it can be configured to be coupled to the new smoker 414, particularly the new smoker body 426. Thus, the cap 418 can be configured to remove a sharp edge from the stretcher body 426 and/or reduce its palpability when coupled to the stretcher body 426. As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the cap 418 is a cap body that is curved or otherwise rounded to reduce irritation that may be caused to surrounding soft tissue (eg, the tongue) by the retractor body 426. (434). The cap body 434 defines a first or upper end 438 and a second or lower end 442 that is spaced apart transversely from the first end 438. The cap body 434 further includes a cavity 446 extending into the lower end 442. The cavity 446 is configured to receive at least a portion of the new smoker body 426.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the first end 438 of the cap body 434 defines an upper surface 450 that is curved or otherwise rounded, and the distal body end 464 and the distal body end 464. It includes a proximal body end 468 that is spaced along the longitudinal direction L from. The cap body 434 may be curved along the lateral direction or otherwise made round to define a convex outer surface 450. As shown in FIG. 4E, the top surface 450 is curved such that the slope of the top surface 450 increases as the top surface 450 extends outwardly from the centerline of the top surface 450.

4B to 4E, the cap body 434 may define an outer shell 480, which outer shell 480 extends from the ceiling 470 and the first end 438 And at least one sidewall defining at least a first inner surface 475a and a second inner surface 475b spaced from and substantially facing the first inner surface 475a along a first direction (eg, lateral). 474), wherein the ceiling 470 and the first and second inner surfaces 475a, 475b at least partially define a cavity 446. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer shells 480 are first and second parallel to each other and opposite each other along the first direction such that the first and second inner surfaces 475a, 475b are parallel to each other and opposite each other along the first direction. Second sidewall 474 is included.

As shown in FIG. 4C, the distal end of the cap body 434 defines a first opening 478a that extends into the cavity 446, and the proximal end of the cap body 434 extends into the cavity 446 The second opening 478b to be defined is limited. The cavity 446 and the first and second openings 478a and 478b extend through a cap body 434 along a second direction (eg, longitudinal) substantially perpendicular to the first direction 479 Together. The channel 479 is shaped into a substantially cylindrical shape, and is configured to receive the new smoker body 426 to cover a portion of the new smoker body 426, and the openings 478a, 478b are of the new smoker body 426. The first and second coupling members 425a, 425b are configured to extend through the openings 478a, 478b when the portion is received within the cavity 446 or channel 479.

As shown in FIG. 4C, the shell 480 is configured to bend elastically when the cavity 446 receives the new smoker body 426. That is, the side wall 474 is configured to elastically bend outwardly between the first position and the second position when the cavity 446 receives the elongate body 426.

Continuing with reference to FIG. 4C, the cap 418 may further include an attachment mechanism configured to couple the cap 418 to the new smoker 414. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism includes at least one attachment member configured to couple the cap 418 to the distractor, eg, first, second, third, and fourth attachment members 400 do. As shown, the attachment mechanism or each attachment member 500 can be substantially defined by, or otherwise extended from, at least one sidewall along the first direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second attachment members 500 and the third and fourth attachment members 500 extend toward each other into the cavity 446 and face each other along the first direction. The attachment member 500 can each define an abutment surface 504 facing the ceiling 470 of the cavity 446, wherein when the cap 418 is coupled to the extruder 414, the abutment surface 504 It is in contact with the inner surface(s) of the new smoker body 426 to capture or otherwise fix the new smoker body 426 within the cavity 446. It should be appreciated that the attachment member can include other configurations. For example, the attachment member 500 can define a C-clip. It should also be appreciated that the cap 418 can include features other than the attachment member 500, which is configured to couple the cap 418 to the new smoker 414. For example, the attachment mechanism can be each surface of the sidewall 474 creating a frictional fit with the system, or the attachment mechanism can be a securing member, such as a needle. In addition, the first and second attachment members 500 can be configured to abut each inner surface of the new smoker body 426.

During surgery, a retractor 414 may be attached to a pair of palatal bone portions. Subsequently, a cap 418 may be coupled to the new smoker 414 to smooth the sharp edges of the new smoker 414. The cap 418 can be coupled to the stretcher 414 such that the cap 418 is placed over the stretcher body 426 as shown in FIGS. 4B-4E, for example.

In other embodiments and with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the implant assembly 510 is configured to engage a hole 519 defined by an anatomical structure 520 such as a clamp member of a skull clamp as illustrated. Cap 518 may be included. In particular, the cap 518 is a hole 519 so that the cap 518 lies over the hole 519 of the implant 520 or at least over the non-smooth surface to exclude/exclude the smooth surface and/or reduce the tactile properties of the implant. It may be configured to be coupled to the implant 520 through. Thus, the cap 518 can be configured to remove sharp edges from the implant and/or reduce its palpability when coupled to the implant. As shown in FIG. 5B, the cap 518 includes a cap body 534 that is curved or otherwise rounded corresponding to the curved surface of the implant 520, thereby surrounding soft tissue by the implant 520. Reduces the stimuli that can be caused by The cap body 534 defines a first or upper end 538 and a second or lower end 542 spaced apart transversely from the first end 538. It should be appreciated that the cap 518 can also be configured to engage a hole defined by the bone such that the cap 518 is placed over the bone when it is engaged to the bone. For example, the cap 518 can be configured to engage the hole defined by the bone to engage the cap 518 with the bone.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the first end 538 of the cap body 534 defines a top surface 550 that is curved or otherwise rounded to define a convex outer surface 550. The cap body 534 can define an outer shell 580 and an inner shell 584 disposed within the outer shell 580. The outer shell 584 includes a ceiling portion 570 substantially corresponding to the outer surface of the implant 520, and the inner shell 584 has at least a first inner surface 575a and a first direction (eg, lateral direction). And at least one sidewall 574 that is spaced apart from the first inner surface 575a and defines a second inner surface 575b substantially facing it. 5B, the inner shell 584 can also define an outer surface 596. Since the inner surfaces 575a, 575b are spaced apart from each other, the inner shell 584 is configured to bend elastically against the outer shell 580 when the inner shell 584 is received by the hole 519. That is, at least one side wall 574b of the inner shell 584 is configured to be elastically inwardly curved between the first position and the second position when the inner shell 584 is received by the hole 519. However, it should be appreciated that the inner shell 584 can be configured to be not as flexible as desired.

The inner shell 584 or at least one sidewall 574 can be configured to be inserted through one of the holes of the implant 520 or into the hole of the bone. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one sidewall 574 is substantially continuous, and the shape is substantially cylindrical. However, it should be appreciated that as long as the inner shell 584 can pass through a hole in the implant or bone, the at least one sidewall 574 is discontinuous/discontinuous or has a different shape as desired.

With continued reference to FIG. 5B, the cap 518 may further include an attachment mechanism configured to couple the cap 518 to the implant or bone. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment mechanism includes at least one attachment member, eg, first and second attachment members 600, configured to couple the cap 518 to the implant or bone. As shown, the attachment mechanism or attachment member 600 may be defined by or otherwise extend from at least one sidewall, and may be substantially continuous when the attachment member extends around the sidewall. Thus, it is said that at least a portion of the at least one attachment member 600 extends away from the other at least a portion of the at least one attachment member 600 and at least a portion of the attachment member 600 is opposite each other along the first direction. Can. The attachment member 600 can be configured to forcibly fit the implant 520 when the inner shell 584 is received by the hole 519 as illustrated in FIG. 5B. However, it should be appreciated that the attachment member 600 can be configured to define an abutment surface that is configured to abut the inner surface of the implant 520. It should also be appreciated that the attachment mechanism can be the outer surface of the sidewall 574 creating a frictional fit with the bone or implant.

Although the foregoing description and drawings represent preferred embodiments of the invention, it is understood that various additions, modifications, combinations and/or substitutions may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Will be. In particular, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms, structures, arrangements, proportions and other elements, materials and components without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention can be used with many modifications of structures, arrangements, proportions, materials and components specifically tailored to specific environmental and surgical requirements without departing from the principles of the present invention. Also, features described herein may be used alone or in combination with other features. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment may be used and/or replaced with features described in other embodiments. Accordingly, the presently disclosed embodiments should be considered illustrative and non-limiting in all respects, and the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims and is not limited to the foregoing description.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations of the present invention can be made without departing from the broad scope of the appended claims. Some of these are discussed above, others will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (43)

A cap configured to be coupled to the implant, the cap,
A cap body comprising an inner shell and an outer shell, wherein the inner shell has at least one side wall, and the at least one side wall is spaced substantially along a first direction from at least the first inner surface and the first inner surface. Defining a second inner surface facing the first inner surface, the cap body further comprising a cavity sized to receive at least a portion of the implant body, the cavity receiving the at least a portion of the implant body Wherein the inner shell is elastically bent between the first position and the second position, and the first inner surface and the second inner surface each partially define the cavity, the cap body; And
An attachment mechanism defined by the at least one sidewall, the attachment mechanism comprising a first attachment member and a second attachment member, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member are each substantially from the at least one sidewall. Having the attachment mechanism, extending along the first direction,
The attachment mechanism is configured to capture the at least a portion of the implant body within the cavity when the inner shell is in the second position,
A cap wherein the inner shell moves relative to the outer shell as the inner shell flexes elastically between the first and second positions. The cap of claim 1, wherein the first attachment member extends from the first inner surface, and the second attachment member extends from the second inner surface. The cap of claim 1, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member are configured to abut respective bone oriented surfaces of the implant when the at least a portion of the implant body is captured within the cavity. The cap according to claim 3, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member are opposed to each other along the first direction. 5. The cap according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member extend towards each other substantially along the first direction. The cap according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the at least one side wall defines a third inner surface connecting the first inner surface to the second inner surface. The cap body of claim 1, wherein the cap body defines a first opening extending into the cavity, such that when at least a portion of the implant body is received by the cavity, a portion of the implant is through the opening. Extended cap. The first inner surface and the second inner surface according to claim 1, wherein the cavity is defined between the outer shell and the inner shell, and the inner shell receives the at least a portion of the implant body. Caps configured to bend to move towards each other. The cap body of claim 1, wherein the cap body comprises a first end and a second end, the cavity extends into the second end towards the first end, and the at least one sidewall is relative to the first end. The cap, wherein the at least one sidewall extends from the first end to bend. The cavity and the first opening of claim 1, wherein the cavity is defined between the outer shell and the inner shell, and the cap body defines a first opening and a second opening extending into the cavity. And the second opening defines a channel extending through the cap body along a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction,
The at least one sidewall includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall along the first direction. 9. The inner shell of claim 8, sized to be received by an opening defined by the implant,
The attachment mechanism is an outer surface of the at least one sidewall, such that the outer surface is configured to form a frictional fit with the implant when the inner shell is inserted into the opening. A cap configured to be coupled to the implant, the cap,
A cap body comprising an inner shell and an outer shell, wherein the inner shell has at least one side wall, and the at least one side wall is spaced substantially along a first direction from at least the first inner surface and the first inner surface. The second inner surface defines a second inner surface facing the first inner surface, the inner shell includes an outer surface, the outer shell includes an inner surface facing the outer surface, and the cap body is attached to the inner shell. It further comprises a cavity defined by, and the cavity is sized to accommodate at least a portion of the implant such that the inner shell comprises: 1) a first position and a second as the cavity receives the at least a portion of the implant. A cap body that is elastically curved between positions, and 2) is configured to be elastically curved outward toward the outer shell as the cavity receives the at least a portion of the implant; And
An attachment mechanism defined by the at least one sidewall, the attachment mechanism comprising a first attachment member and a second attachment member, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member are each substantially from the at least one sidewall. Having the attachment mechanism, extending along the first direction,
The attachment mechanism is configured to capture the at least a portion of the implant within the cavity when the inner shell is in the second position. 13. The inner shell of claim 12, wherein the inner shell includes a ceiling portion partially defining the cavity, and each of the first attachment member and the second attachment member defines an abutment surface that at least partially faces the ceiling portion. To do, cap. A cap configured to be coupled to the implant, the cap,
A cap body comprising an inner shell and an outer shell, wherein the inner shell has at least one sidewall, and the at least one sidewall is spaced substantially along a first direction from at least the first inner surface and the first inner surface. Defining a second inner surface facing the first inner surface, the cap body further comprising a cavity sized to receive at least a portion of the implant, such that the cavity accommodates the at least a portion of the implant Accordingly, the inner shell is elastically bent between the first position and the second position, and the inner shell includes a ceiling portion partially defining the cavity, the cap body; And
An attachment mechanism defined by the at least one sidewall, the attachment mechanism comprising a first attachment member and a second attachment member, wherein the first attachment member and the second attachment member are each substantially from the at least one sidewall. Extending along the first direction, each of the first attachment member and the second attachment member is provided with the attachment mechanism, at least partially defining each of the abutting surfaces facing the ceiling,
The attachment mechanism is configured to capture the at least a portion of the implant within the cavity when the inner shell is in the second position. 15. The cap of claim 14, wherein the cap body defines a first opening extending into the cavity such that a portion of the implant extends through the opening when the at least a portion of the implant is received by the cavity. The cap according to claim 1; And
An implant assembly comprising the implant according to claim 1. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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